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Tomato plants depend on sun, warm weather and consistent watering to grow their best. Along with these important components, you must evaluate your soil type because every region has varying pH levels and textures. Tomato plants cannot grow in sandy soils. They need a balanced environment of moist organic material and aerated topsoil for the best harvest.

Nutrient Loss

Sandy soils lack essential nutrients for plant growth and fruiting. In particular, calcium tends to leach out of sandy soils through rapid water movement. This element forms plant cell walls that contribute to new plant growth, including roots and stems. Calcium deficiencies stunt the entire tomato plant's growth and causes extensive dieback. Another negative effect to the tomato is blossom-end rot. Fruits develop rot that cannot be removed and cutting the tomato from the plant is the only way to prevent further disease. Improving the soil conditions and adding sufficient fertilizer or other amendments helps the soil regain its healthy nutrient balance.

Water Needs

Wide spaces between sand particles allow water to flow quickly through the ground and moisture doesn't stay in the soil where the tomato's roots need it. Tomato fruits themselves are 95 percent water, states University of Missouri Extension. As a result, lack of water within the soil contributes to drought conditions for the tomato plant. Stem and leaf stunting occur from this. The tomatoes are affected by this and you will have fewer of them and they may be misshapen or cracked.

Amending Sandy Soil

Sandy soils are easily improved by adding organic matter. Typically, you add 2 to 3 inches of compost to the top 6 inches of topsoil. Tilling this organic matter into the soil contributes to better water and nutrient retention. When you amend the sandy soil, it is good practice to also check the pH level with a test kit. Neutral pH levels between 6.5 and 7 are perfect for tomato plants.

Avoid Compacted Soil

Unlike most plants, tomatoes grow best with only one-third of the stems and foliage above the ground. The majority of the plant's body remains in the topsoil for root growth and solid establishment. If you have sandy soil and amend it incorrectly, you may end up with compacted soil. Tomatoes cannot thrive in these conditions either. The roots become suffocated from lack of air pockets and root rot is a constant threat from soggy conditions. Your tomato's soil should absorb at least 1 inch of water from its surface within one hour. Any water that remains standing indicates compacted soil that requires amending.

About the Author

Writing professionally since 2010, Amy Rodriguez cultivates successful cacti, succulents, bulbs, carnivorous plants and orchids at home. With an electronics degree and more than 10 years of experience, she applies her love of gadgets to the gardening world as she continues her education through college classes and gardening activities.